Franklinton was a busy and prosperous settlement during the War of 1812, serving as the central headquarters and supply depot for General William Henry Harrison's army. The settlement took on a military appearance, with soldiers and volunteers organized here by General Harrison and Governor Meigs to be sent north to the front. The centrality of Franklinton was beneficial for General Harrison to conduct business here, as information could reach various parts of the region on horseback within days. With news of General Hull's surrender at Detroit, an important conference involving three generals took place here, accompanied by the arrival of Ohio and Pennsylvania troops and Kentucky dragoons. Up to 3,000 soldiers were assembled, with military inspections held in the Public Square to assess their readiness to march to the northern borders. Franklinton was fortified with a blockhouse as settlers in outlying districts came to the settlement for safety from Indian and British attacks. 

 

At the same time, in 1812, the city of Columbus was being laid out as the capital of Ohio on the high bank east of the Scioto, opposite Franklinton, on land owned and contributed by four Franklinton residents and with council from Lucas Sullivant.